Day 01 - Chilling- Skiu (3-4 hrs)

We leave Leh to Chilling by jeep in the morning on the rugged barren field of Taru. En route we see the confluence of Indus and Zanskar River, where we cross the bridge on the Indus River and follow the Zanskar River on rough road for 2-3 hrs. Crossing the mighty Zanskar River is full of thrill and excitement in a cable trolley. On the other side of the river, we will meet our pony man with the horses. After crossing the small pass, it is an easy walk until Skiu

Day 02 - Skiu to Markha (7-8 hours)

Following the Markha River, we will hike through a lovely valley on a fairly level path. The trail crosses the river at various points, and passes winter settlements that contain Lhatos (religious shrines for local deities) and Mani walls (stones inscribed with Buddhist prayers). During peak season, a number of tented teahouses will be open for refreshment. Once we cross the river for the final time, we will arrive in Markha, the largest village in the valley (consisting of around 20 houses, an old monastery and a ruined fort). Note: Water and sunscreen are essential, since the valley is quite exposed.

Day 03 - Markha to Thachungtse (5-6 hours)

The Markha valley trail continues past old stone-mills, a ruined castle and the auspicious monastery of Techa, which proudly perches upon a towering cliff that looms above Markha. It is well worth visiting, if we have the energy! The path then intersects the river several times before cutting through the last hamlets in the valley. After leaving the village of Umlung, we will be afforded our first view of mighty Kang Yatse (6400m), which will stay in sight until we cross Kongmaru La. After we break for lunch in the village of Hangkar (the last in the valley), we will press onward to the lovely green pasture of Thachungste, where we will make camp.

Day 04 - Thachungtse to Nimaling (4 hours)

Today the trail will lead us up to the beautiful plateau of Nimaling, where the people of the Markha Valley bring their herds to graze during the summer months. At 4700m, Nimaling is the highest camp on the trek, giving us spectacular views of Kang Yatse to the right, the Zangskar Range and the Markha Valley below

Day 05 - Nimaling to Shang Sumdo via Kongmaru La (7 hours)

After a hearty breakfast, we will cross Kongmaru La (5200m), the highest pass on the trek and from here we have a wonderful view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The 2-hour descent is quite steep, but will gradually level as we enter Shang Gorge, with its strange and otherworldly rock formations. More river crossings bar our way before we arrive at the sour-spring of Chuskurmo (used in traditional medicine by the Amchi doctors). After a break, we will cut through a couple of villages before reaching Shang Sumdo, where we will meet our taxi and drive back to Leh.